The CURT Basket Cargo Carrier is a sturdy 60" x 24" steel basket with a 500-pound capacity, designed for easy folding and storage. Reviewers praised its spacious design and durability, noting it fits well on Jeeps and allows for convenient travel without protruding into traffic. The folding feature makes it ideal for family vacations and beach trips where space is limited. However, some users noted the 500-pound limit may not accommodate heavier cargo loads. This carrier is best suited for those needing reliable, foldable cargo transport on vehicles with compatible 2-inch shank hitches.
Full review
Product Overview and Specifications
The Curt 18153 Folding 2" Shank Basket Cargo Carrier represents a premium hitch-mounted cargo solution designed for vehicles with 2-inch receiver hitches. This 60" x 24" steel basket features a folding mechanism that allows for easier storage when not in use, distinguishing it from the fixed 18152 model. The carrier supports up to 500 pounds of cargo weight and includes a 2" shank for secure attachment to compatible hitches. According to Curt's official specifications, the basket measures 60 inches in length and 24 inches in width, with a height of 11 inches at its highest point. The folding design extends the overall tongue length by 7 inches compared to the fixed variant, providing better clearance for vehicles with spare tires mounted to the rear. The carrier's steel construction is designed for durability, though user reports indicate potential rust issues in wet conditions, as noted by a 4Runner forum user who experienced significant rust damage that affected their vehicle's roof.
Real-World Performance
User experiences with the Curt 18153 demonstrate its effectiveness as a cargo carrier for camping and outdoor activities. A 2021 Bronco forum user reported successfully using the 18153 model for gear transport, noting that it could be tested for hatch door clearance with proper positioning of cargo. The carrier's folding mechanism allows for easier storage and transportation when not in use, which reviewers have found particularly useful for vehicles with limited storage space. However, the same user noted that the carrier's extended tongue design may require additional receiver extensions to achieve proper clearance for vehicles with spare tires, as demonstrated by a 4Runner forum member who had to use a 6-inch extension to accommodate his spare tire. The carrier's stability was praised by multiple users, with one 4Runner forum member noting that the basket's high sides provide better stability compared to tray-style alternatives when carrying items like coolers and camping gear.
Build Quality and Design
The Curt 18153 exhibits solid construction quality with its steel basket design, though user feedback reveals mixed opinions on long-term durability. A 4Runner forum user reported significant rust issues with their Curt basket, with rust particles dropping onto their vehicle's roof and causing substantial damage despite attempts at repainting. This rust problem appears to be a recurring concern among users, particularly those who frequently expose the carrier to wet conditions. The carrier's folding mechanism functions as designed, with one user noting that the 7-inch longer tongue provides better clearance for vehicles with spare tires. However, the folding design does require careful installation and may be more complex than the fixed variant. The 2" shank attachment system provides secure mounting, and users have reported that the carrier's steel construction offers good resistance to typical outdoor wear and tear, though not necessarily against corrosion in harsh environments.
What Reviewers Loved
Multiple reviewers praised the Curt 18153 for its substantial cargo capacity and solid construction. A 4Runner forum user who purchased the carrier noted that it works well for camping trips, allowing them to transport two coolers, a BBQ, and additional gear while maintaining adequate space for chairs and other items. The basket's high sides were specifically mentioned as providing better stability compared to tray-style carriers, which users found beneficial for securing loose items during transport. The folding mechanism was appreciated for its convenience, allowing users to store the carrier more easily when not in use. Additionally, the carrier's ability to support up to 500 pounds of cargo was seen as a significant advantage for heavy-duty applications. Users also appreciated the carrier's overall stability, with one reviewer noting that the basket's design prevents wobbling when properly balanced, making it suitable for various outdoor activities including camping and recreational vehicle towing.
Where It Falls Short
Despite its many advantages, the Curt 18153 has notable drawbacks that potential buyers should consider. The most significant concern raised by users is the rust vulnerability, with one 4Runner forum member reporting severe rust damage that affected their vehicle's roof. This corrosion issue appears to be particularly problematic for users who frequently expose the carrier to wet conditions or use it in environments where moisture accumulation is common. The carrier's extended tongue design, while providing better clearance for vehicles with spare tires, requires additional receiver extensions that may not be compatible with all vehicle configurations. Users have reported that the folding mechanism, while functional, adds complexity to installation and may not be suitable for those seeking simple, straightforward mounting solutions. Additionally, the carrier's design prevents access to the vehicle's hatch door without removing cargo or adjusting the basket, which some users found inconvenient for certain applications.
Who It's Best For
The Curt 18153 Folding 2" Shank Basket Cargo Carrier is best suited for vehicle owners who require substantial cargo capacity for camping, outdoor recreation, and general hauling applications. The carrier's 500-pound capacity and 60" x 24" dimensions make it ideal for users who frequently transport large items such as coolers, camping gear, and recreational equipment. It is particularly beneficial for owners of vehicles with 2-inch receiver hitches who value the convenience of a folding design for easier storage. The carrier is recommended for those who regularly engage in camping trips, outdoor activities, or any application where a secure, elevated cargo platform is needed. However, it is not recommended for users who frequently encounter wet conditions or those who require easy access to their vehicle's hatch door without removing cargo. The carrier's design also makes it less suitable for vehicles with limited receiver extension capabilities or those with spare tires that require additional clearance solutions.
How It Compares to Alternatives
When compared to similar cargo carriers, the Curt 18153 offers several advantages over alternatives, particularly in terms of capacity and construction quality. Compared to the fixed 18152 variant, the folding design provides better storage convenience, though at the cost of increased complexity. Users have noted that the basket-style design offers better stability than tray-style alternatives, particularly when carrying items like coolers and camping gear. The carrier's 500-pound capacity exceeds many competing products in its class, making it suitable for heavy-duty applications. However, the rust concerns that have been reported by some users place it at a disadvantage compared to alternative brands that offer better corrosion resistance. The 4Runner forum discussion highlighted that while the Curt basket provides good functionality, users have noted that the fixed 18109 tray-style carrier was more affordable and equally effective for many applications, though lacking the folding convenience of the basket variant.
Value at This Price
The Curt 18153 offers good value for users who require substantial cargo capacity and the convenience of a folding design. While the carrier's price point is competitive with similar products in the market, the reported rust issues may impact long-term value for users who frequently encounter wet conditions. The 500-pound capacity and 60" x 24" dimensions justify the cost for users who regularly transport large items, though the need for additional receiver extensions in some vehicle configurations may add to overall costs. Users have noted that the carrier's solid construction and substantial capacity make it a worthwhile investment for frequent campers and outdoor enthusiasts. However, the rust vulnerability reported by some users suggests that the long-term value may be reduced for those who use the carrier in harsh environmental conditions. The carrier's ability to support heavy loads and provide secure cargo transport makes it a strong contender for users who prioritize functionality over potential corrosion issues.
Strengths
- +500-pound weight capacity
- +Folding 2-inch shank design
- +Spacious 60" x 24" basket dimensions
- +Easy to fold up for storage and travel
- +Durable black steel construction
Watch-outs
- −Limited to 500-pound capacity which may not suit heavy loads
- −May not fit all vehicle types due to specific shank requirement
How it compares
The Curt Basket Cargo Carrier offers a folding design that's more compact than the fixed CURT 18153 model, but it has a lower weight capacity compared to the MaxxHaul 70107 and Wildroad 500 Lbs Hitch Cargo Carrier. Unlike the Mockins Hitch Cargo Carrier, it lacks electrical connector compatibility and security features like a lockable hitch pin, making it less robust for high-security transport.
Who this is for
At a glance: foldable cargo transport on compatible 2-inch hitches.
Why you’d buy the Curt Basket Cargo Carrier
- 500-pound weight capacity.
- Folding 2-inch shank design.
- Spacious 60" x 24" basket dimensions.
Why you’d skip it
- Limited to 500-pound capacity which may not suit heavy loads.
- May not fit all vehicle types due to specific shank requirement.
Rating sources
“No major complaints, but it's a pita to deal with sometimes.”
“I think I have an older variation of the tray style carrier. I don't think it had bolts like the one you linked... but I purchased it from eTrailer 6 or 7 years ago. Very very similar. Curt also makes my Audi's hitch... good quality stuff.”
“CURT basket cargo carriers feature a strong bolt-together design and are made with heavy-duty carbide steel and a tubular construction for increased strength.”
Our 3.6 score is the average of these published ratings. Ratings marked * were derived from the reviewer’s written analysis or video transcript — the publisher didn’t print an explicit numeric score, so we inferred one from their own words. Click through to verify. More about methodology.
